Barcelona Close To Signing Ivan Fresneda, Agreement On Five-Year Deal Imminent

Joan Laporta did not anticipate the complications that the summer transfer window has brought for Barcelona. The idea of balanced exits and arrivals should have worked in theory, but the reality has been far from it.

Weeks into the summer window, the Catalans are far from where they would have liked to be. With even the fringe players refusing to depart, the Catalans find themselves in a tough state in terms of transfer activity.

But there is some positive news with regard to one of their targets as ESPN is reporting that Barcelona are closing in on the signing of Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda.

As per the update, the Catalans are now said to be close to reaching an agreement with the youngster over a five-year contract, with the final touches being applied now.

And they hope to finalise an agreement with Real Valladolid over the transfer soon as well. Fresneda, 18, has a release clause worth €20 million in his contract, but the report suggests that Barcelona believe that the operation can be closed for around €10 million.

Fresneda has his heart set on a move to Catalonia and has even placed offers from Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal and AC Milan on hold. The Italians are the most interested in his signing and are now making a serious effort to lure him away.

But, it seems like the Catalans have made significant progress with his camp over a potential five-year contract. And soon they hope to agree a deal with Real Valladolid as well.

However, as is the case with the signings of Vitor Roque or Inigo Martinez, player sales will be necessary. With efforts being made to offload out-of-favour right-back Sergino Dest, his departure would be key to paving the way for Fresneda’s arrival.